Agrobiology

Overview

The Agrobiology programme at Aarhus University is broadly science-based with a focus on applicability and problem-solving, and takes an integrative approach to learning about the biology behind food production. 

A cross-sectoral approach 

The core of this programme is biology, with perspectives on sustainability, environmental impact, animal health and welfare, plant health, and product quality. Students can choose between specialisations including animal nutrition, plant nutrition, animal health and welfare, plant health, and pest management, or combine animal and plant sciences. Because this is a cross-disciplinary master’s, students can also choose courses from other academic programmes.

Students will learn analytical and problem-solving skills, how to do research, and how to generate new knowledge. In this programme emphasis is placed as much on the academic and professional skills as on the applied skills. 

An international learning environment 

International students make up roughly one-third of each class, providing students with international knowledge and perspectives and the possibility to learn about different environments – both academic and agricultural. Because agriculture industries and environmental impacts are international, it is natural to include different national perspectives in discussions about these topics.

Denmark is an ideal place to study agriculture because of its huge food production industry, extensive agricultural research, and strict environmental regulations. International students gain the chance to learn from leaders in sustainable food production, and Danish students can learn about conditions outside Denmark. 

A world research leader 

Aarhus University’s research in agricultural sciences is cutting-edge and puts it in the front rank of agricultural science institutions worldwide. The core areas of research are: climate and natural resources, environment and bioenergy, organic farming, food quality, farm animal production, and plant production.

Sustainability is a fundamental principle. The goal is to seek solutions that contribute to environmentally and economically sustainable development of the agricultural and food industries. 

Careers 

Most students who complete this programme find employment in the private sector as advisers or in R&D. Other career possibilities include feed or supply, developing new plants, plant protection, teaching, and working with authorities to develop or enforce industry regulations.

“The Agrobiology MSc lets you fine-tune your study programme through the electives you choose. This means that each newly qualified agrobiologist has a unique study profile, and I think this puts you in a very strong position in the labour market. My study programme gave me a specific theoretical knowledge of livestock and crop production, which is a solid foundation for the skills I use in my current job.”